Etihad Airways in controversial $642 million sponsorship pact with Manchester City, largest deal in soccer history

Under the agreement, Manchester City will rename its home ground as Etihad Stadium. (File photo)

By JAMES M. DORSEY
AL ARABIYA

Abu Dhabi-owned English Premier soccer club Manchester City has concluded a 10-year, $642 million sponsorship agreement with the emirate’s airline, Etihad Airways – the largest such deal in soccer history.

The deal reinforces the cl…